SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention is generally a structure comprising a tensioned skin filled with shaped modules for bearing compression. In an uncompressed state, the modules are pourable like sand, salt or sugar. When compressed by tensioning of the skin, the modules lock up so that the skin filled tightly with modules comprises a load-bearing structure, such as a supporting-arch for a house; or alternatively, for a piece of furniture (such as a chair base or leg). The structure may optionally be dis-assembled for easy transport, by releasing the skin tension and removing the modules.
The basic “building block” commonly used in the prior art for construction of structures, is similar to the wooden blocks used by children: it is a 6-sided element in the shape of a rectangular prism (i.e., a “brick”).
Now according to the invention, construction may readily be accomplished by use of a regular “building block” of a higher order than a "brick", for example a 12-sided element in the shape of a dodecahedron. Such an element may have 12 equal sides, each side being in the shape of a pentagon (having 5 edges). Each edge of a pentagon is equal. Hence, pentagons may be prepared by manufacture of numerous “sticks” for forming their edges, all being essentially identical; either by a hand-manufacture process that can be accomplished with unskilled labor using primitive tools; or alternatively by an industrial process of repetitive manufacture in an automated factory setting.
E.g., to construct an embodiment of a structure according to the invention, one might bring to the site only a 3D printer for preparing modular elements in the form of dodecahedrons of the nature described herein; powdered material in bulk as feedstock for the printer; and appropriately pre-shaped skin material which may be folded flat for shipping. Hence, structures according to the invention may be appropriate for construction and use in remote regions of the world; as airlifted emergency shelter in disaster areas, military housing in combat zones, or the like. Such structures may be made permanent, or capable of dis-assembly, removal and re-use as desired. Such structures may be more substantial than a fabric tent, but less bulky and hence more convenient to transport and erect than conventional brick, stone, steel, concrete or wood-framed housing.